On Monday, the country’s top infectious disease expert said that it is reasonable to consider a vaccine mandate for domestic flights. During an interview on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Dr. Anthony Fauci said that “When you make vaccinations a requirement, that’s another incentive to get more people vaccinated”. He added that “If you want to do that with domestic flights, I think that’s something that seriously should be considered”.
Vaccine Mandate for Domestic Flights
According to the White House, they considered the suggestion. Also, this isn’t the first time that Fauci brought up the idea of a vaccine mandate for domestic flights. In September, the travel industry opposed the idea of a vaccine requirement on domestic flights. A US Travel Association executive said that air travel is safe “as long as masks are worn”. Also, the Biden administration extended the mask mandate at least until March.
Omicron Variant Spreads Across the US
The omicron variant is quickly spreading across the US to the point that it is now the dominant strain in the country.
Airlines have to cancel flights since Friday partly because of staff members getting sick. Last week, the airline industry requested a shorter quarantine period for breakthrough cases. Airlines for America, JetBlue, and Delta sent separate requests for the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to shorten the quarantine period to 5 days.
The CDC updated its quarantine recommendations for those who will test positive for COVID19. According to CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, “The Omicron variant is spreading quickly and has the potential to impact all facets of our society”.
According to the CDC, asymptomatic cases and those whose symptoms are improving will only need to quarantine for 5 days. However, the person will have to wear a mask for the next five days. If he or she has a fever, the individual should stay at home until the fever lasts. This applies to all individuals regardless of vaccination status.
